Dan Brown: The Lost SymbolHis newest novel is full of spiritual truths, historical facts, and information about our nation's forefathers, many of whom were members of the Masons. An exciting story even if there are some gaps in logic that left me shaking my head. He's not the best writer, but he does a lot of research into his subject matter.

Patricia Panahi: God Outside the Box: A Story of Breaking FreeI enjoyed Patricia's book and related to her spiritual quest and exploration of many different paths, religions and beliefs. The daughter of a Muslim father and Catholic mother, Patricia grew up in Iran and later came to the United States, where she began her quest to find God "outside the box". From rebirthing to shamanism,Hinduism to metaphysics, I felt like I was reliving my own spiritual journey. Patricia explores many concepts and ideas in her book, such as synchronicity, reincarnation, and sacred contracts. I was never bored. In fact, I didn't want the book to end. I'm now looking forward to her next book

Deepak Chopra: The Third Jesus: The Christ We Cannot IgnoreThe Jesus that Chopra presents to us is a teacher of God consciousness and a walking example of one who lived in this state of consciousness. I most resonate with this Jesus and even those who do not see themselves as Christians will be inspired and fed by the teachings of Jesus as they are presented by Chopra.

Elizabeth Gilbert: Eat Pray LoveA delightful memoir about Gilbert's one-year sabbatical following her divorce. She seeks to find pleasure again in Italy, to find God in an ashram in India, and balance in Indonesia learning from an old medicine man. A spiritual journey (and, in the end, a love story) that is fun, humorous and wonderfully told.

Byron Katie: Loving What IsThis book gives you the key to unlocking the door that can lead to a life of inner peace and joy. If everyone in the world would read this book there would be no more war.

Charles Fillmore: Metaphysical Bible DictionaryBased on the teachings of Jesus Christ, this book provides the esoteric meanings of words, names and places. A valuable resource for all Bible students who want to delve into metaphysical interpretation of scripture.

Prosperity and Spirituality

When you grew up did you hear that money was the root of all evil? Did you hear that it is harder for a rich man to enter "the kingdom" than for a camel to go through the eye of a needle? Well, if you believed those sayings then chances are you are not a very prosperous person today. And you have been misled.

The Bible says that the "love of money" is the root of all evil. In other words, it's not money itself but the worship of money that gets us into trouble. Worshiping money means to make choices in life solely based on money.

It is not being rich that keeps us from the kingdom, but our attitudes about it. You may remember the story about the rich young ruler that came to Jesus and wanted to follow him. Jesus tested him. He told him to sell all that he had and give the money to the poor. The man could not do that. His money and possessions were too important to him.

Jesus had many followers and supporters who were rich. He himself owned a seamless garment, which was very expensive. Although he did not have a lot of possessions, he ate well and stayed with wealthy supporters. He was always provided for. He did not chastise the rich for being wealthy, but he made it clear that we must not focus on or worry about money or the material things in life. God would provide, he believed, and God did and still does.

If you are having prosperity challenges, consider your beliefs about money. What were you taught growing up? How did your family treat money? Did you grow up resenting rich people? Were you told that money is scarce or hard to come by? These beliefs could be part of your consciousness now and need to be released.

Write down all the negative messages that you remember getting while you were growing up about money or being rich. Acknowledge that they have not worked for you and in your heart and mind, give them to God for healing. You might even tear up the piece of paper that you've written them on as a symbolic act of release. Then begin to visualize yourself as a prosperous person. See yourself living in the home of your dreams, purchasing the new car or clothing you desire, and being generous with your money to those less fortunate. See yourself tithing. Know in your heart that it is God that is your source, not your job, your parents or your spouse. And lastly, give thanks. Feel gratitude for all that you have now and for all that God has for you as you open your mind to receive it.

I have selected photographs that make me smile and brighten my day. I hope they will do that for you as well. Click on the photos to see an enlarged view. I invite you to visit often and see what I add to my collection.